Homestore

DIY 'key to meeting carbon targets'

Undertaking do it yourself projects to refurbish homes and improve eco standards is central to ensuring the country meets its carbon reduction targets, an expert has said.

Presenter of the Grand Designs TV series Kevin McCloud said at the Grand Designs Live event in London that refurbishment of existing properties is central to ensuring the development of a low-carbon economy.

He argued that while new low-carbon buildings can be built, changes have to be made to the current housing stock - as these buildings will likely still be standing in 2050, which is the government's target date for an 80 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

"Frankly there is not a hope in hell of meeting our targets unless we do something about the existing housing stock," he said.

Steps to help reduce carbon emissions that can be taken by homeowners undertaking DIY projects on their properties include improving insulation or installing micro power generators, such as solar cells or wind turbines.

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